Ground Beef And Cheese Pasta Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Cheese Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Cheese Pasta Bake for my family on busy weeknights. It’s an easy one-dish meal that combines savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta all baked together to perfection. Not only does it save time on cleanup, but I also get the satisfaction of serving a hearty dish that pleases everyone at the table. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible!

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:37:35.928Z

When I first crafted this dish, I wanted to combine classic comfort food elements into a simple yet delicious recipe. The balance of flavors from the seasoned beef and the richness of the cheese creates a delightful experience. I discovered that using a mix of cheeses adds depth, so don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorites!

One key to achieving the perfect bake is ensuring the pasta is slightly undercooked before combining it with the beef and sauce. This way, it absorbs the flavors as it finishes in the oven without becoming mushy. Trust me—every bite will be a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty combination of beef and cheese for ultimate comfort
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Ground Beef and Cheese Pasta Bake lies in the combination of pasta, beef, and cheese. I recommend using penne pasta for its size and shape, which holds onto the sauce beautifully. If you prefer a different pasta, shells or rotini could be great alternatives. The meat carries rich flavors, while the cheese provides creaminess. Don't hesitate to experiment with half beef and half Italian sausage for a flavor boost.

When it comes to the cheeses, cheddar and mozzarella create an ideal balance of sharpness and meltiness. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some gouda or pepper jack for extra flavor complexity. Additionally, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish, giving it a fresh burst of flavor while contrasting the hearty, cheesy elements.

Making the Perfect Bake

One of the keys to a successful pasta bake is ensuring the beef mixture isn't too dry. When cooking the beef and onion, be mindful not to overcook them; aim for a nice caramelization on the onions without letting them burn. This technique not only enhances the flavors but also adds a pleasing texture. If you find the mixture is too thick, consider adding a splash of beef broth to keep the consistency saucy yet cohesive.

Layering is crucial for achieving that cheesy, gooey texture that everyone loves. Start with a good base of the pasta mixture, as this helps to prevent the top from burning while baking. I recommend evenly distributing the cheese on each layer—this ensures every bite is cheesy and delicious. Don’t skip covering your dish for the first 20 minutes of baking; this traps steam and helps the cheese melt evenly without becoming overly browned.

Ingredients

8 ounces penne pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Then, add the cooked pasta and mix until well combined.

Layer in Baking Dish

Spoon half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Repeat with remaining pasta mixture and cheeses.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Cheese Pasta Bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition. You can also substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to get a jump start on meal prep, this dish is perfect for making ahead. Assemble everything in your baking dish without baking it, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is easy; just pop the slices in the microwave for a few minutes, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes. Add a little splash of tomato sauce or water before reheating to help keep the pasta moist.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Cheese Pasta Bake is hearty enough to stand alone, but serving it with a simple side salad can provide a nice balance to the meal. A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish. Alternatively, some garlic bread can complement the meal nicely, providing a crunchy texture to contrast the creamy pasta.

For a fun twist, consider topping individual servings with chopped scallions or a dollop of sour cream to add freshness to each bite. If you’re ready to spice things up, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha on top for a kick that will elevate the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of pasta?

You can try using zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a low-carb version.

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a little extra cheese on top if desired!

→ Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking to ensure even browning.